Summary
The United States has decided that Colombia is not meeting its obligations in the fight against drugs, marking the first time since 1997 that Colombia has been decertified as a drug control partner. Despite this decision, the U.S. will continue to provide aid to Colombia. Tensions are high between the U.S. and Colombia as cocaine production in Colombia has increased significantly.
Key Facts
- The U.S. has decertified Colombia as a drug control partner for the first time since 1997.
- President Trump accused Colombia of not fulfilling its drug control duties.
- The U.S. will not impose sanctions and will continue aid to Colombia through a "national interest waiver."
- Colombia is the world's largest producer of cocaine, with production increasing by 50% from 2022 to 2023.
- Former President Trump criticized Colombia’s President Petro for his handling of drug policies.
- Colombia has long been a major U.S. ally in the fight against drug cartels.
- Since 2000, the U.S. has given Colombia $14.2 billion in aid, mostly for military and police support.
- Despite the decertification, security cooperation between the two nations will continue.
